Colors and Well-being in Workplaces: Interview with Prof. Massimo Caiazzo
Color Design is Playing an Increasingly Central Role in Creating Healthy and Efficient Work Environments. To delve into this topic, MeM interviewed Prof. Massimo Caiazzo, President of IACC Italy (Italian Association of Color Consultants-Designers ETS), internationally known for his scientific approach and advanced color solutions. The interview focuses on the color rehabilitation intervention carried out at the Vetropack facility, developed in collaboration with Nello Marelli, Vice President of IACC Italy.
MeM: “How did the color project at Vetropack begin, and what were the main issues encountered?”
M.C.: “The project began with an inspection at the Trezzano sul Naviglio plant, with myself, Nello Marelli, and the company manager, Ruggero Spera, present.
Afterwards, we organized an online meeting with the company’s international management to present the issues we had identified, which were related to the color atmosphere and lighting in the work environments.
We found that the color and lighting atmosphere at the Trezzano plant was inadequate, causing fatigue and a loss of motivation among the workers. This analysis was crucial in laying the groundwork for the design of the new facility in Boffalora sul Ticino.”
MeM: “What factors did you consider to improve the well-being of the workers?”
M.C.: “The first step was the creation of a polarity profile based on a semantic differential questionnaire administered to the employees at the Trezzano plant. This allowed us to identify clear goals and specific issues.
One of the main problems was the lighting, which had strong glare and sharp transitions between light and shadow, contributing to visual fatigue. In the Furnace and Quality Control departments, the problems were particularly noticeable: in the first, warm tones like red and orange created a sense of physical and psychological stress, while in the latter, weak lighting and confusing colors compromised concentration and orientation.
We then worked to reduce visual fatigue, optimize the management of chromatic and lighting temperatures, and create a more harmonious environment that could promote concentration and reduce the physical stress of the workers.”
MeM: “How has color design influenced the work environment and productivity?”
M.C.: “In the Furnace department, which was characterized by intense heat and high noise levels, we introduced cool tones to visually compensate for the perception of heat and make the environment more tolerable. This led to a reduction in stress and an improvement in the overall well-being of the employees.
In the Quality Control department, where the lighting was weak and the colors were under-stimulating, hindering concentration, we chose more vibrant and stimulating colors, which helped with orientation and maintaining focus.
We also introduced olive green tones in the noisier areas to dampen the sharp sounds and improve the sensory balance. These interventions had a positive impact on overall comfort, reducing stress and improving productivity.”
MeM: “What criteria did you follow when selecting the color palette?”
M.C.: “We adopted an approach that considered not only visual perception but also the physiological needs of the workers. The selection of colors was based on the principles of chromatic ergonomics, with the goal of reducing visual fatigue and improving environmental comfort.
We calibrated the colors and lighting based on the available natural light and circadian variations, so as to maintain a harmonious balance throughout the different hours of the day and across seasons. This allowed us to create a more dynamic and welcoming work environment.”
MeM: “Are there any data or feedback that demonstrate the positive impact of color design?”
M.C.: “Yes, the data collected shows an increase in productivity and an improvement in the well-being of the workers. The introduction of targeted color palettes reduced visual and physical stress, promoting greater concentration and reducing fatigue.
The workspaces were perceived as more welcoming and stimulating, improving morale and the sense of belonging among employees. The chromatic reorganization also strengthened the company culture, promoting a more positive and cohesive environment.”
MeM: “What are the main difficulties in proposing color solutions to companies?”
M.C.: “Resistance to change is one of the most common challenges. Many companies see color only as an aesthetic element, without understanding its influence on well-being and productivity.
However, when the client is open and aware, it is possible to integrate color as a strategic component, transforming the work environment into a decisive factor for business success.”
MeM: “How are Italian companies evolving in adopting color design?”
M.C.: “In recent years, more and more companies are understanding the importance of color in the design of workspaces. However, there are still some barriers, such as a lack of awareness among decision-makers and limited budgets allocated for these interventions.
To overcome these difficulties, it’s essential to educate the market, provide concrete data, and demonstrate with successful examples how color design can positively influence business performance and employee well-being.”
Conclusion
The chromatic intervention carried out at Vetropack demonstrates how strategic color design can radically transform work environments, improving the quality of life for employees and optimizing productivity. Through a scientific and multidisciplinary approach, Prof. Caiazzo and the IACC Italia team have shown that color is not just an aesthetic issue, but a powerful tool for well-being and business success.
MeM continues to promote these topics through dedicated training and consulting, helping companies integrate color as a key element of regenerative design, and offering intensive and qualifying training courses for designers.
The course “Color and Workspaces: For Functional Design” led by Prof. Massimo Caiazzo is starting soon. The course is designed to help create work environments that improve overall perception and increase the physiological well-being of those who occupy them, alleviating stress and potential frustration.
Limited spots available.